AKS SPEAKER ENDORSES ISDMA ANNIVERSARY SUMMIT, ADVOCATES STRONGER MEDIA-GOVERNMENT COLLABORATION
The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, has endorsed the maiden Leadership Anniversary Summit of the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Media Advocates (ISDMA), describing the initiative as a timely platform for strengthening leadership synergy and promoting sustainable development across the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.
The Speaker gave the endorsement on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of ISDMA members on a courtesy visit to his office in Uyo.
Commending the organisation for using the media as a force for positive societal impact, Elder Otong observed that while some individuals misuse media platforms to spread falsehood and misinformation, ISDMA has distinguished itself through professionalism, truthfulness and development-oriented media practice.
“I want to thank you for coming together as a team. Many people use the media to publish all manner of things, but you are using your platform to promote good. There is freedom of speech, but the freedom after speech is not always guaranteed, especially in cases of defamation.” He stated.
The Speaker encouraged the group to remain committed to constructive criticism and responsible media practice while continuing to highlight policies and initiatives that promote the state’s development.
“I thank you for finding the Governor and the President of the Senate worthy of celebration. They have done well, just as our previous governors also made their contributions. Continue to constructively criticise and promote this administration. I have been following your activities, and I encourage you to sustain the good work.”
He also urged members of the organisation to mentor younger media practitioners by instilling in them the ethics of responsible media practice, professionalism and quality writing.
Earlier, ISDMA President, Mr. Emma Akabio, said the visit was to formally brief the Speaker on the forthcoming Leadership Anniversary Summit and present him with an official invitation to attend.
He described Rt. Hon. Otong as a visionary leader whose people-centred leadership and developmental initiatives have continued to positively impact Abak State Constituency and Akwa Ibom State.
Giving an overview of the forthcoming event, Akpabio said the summit is designed to celebrate impactful leadership while providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration and the exchange of ideas aimed at accelerating development across the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and promoting positive narratives about the region.
He thanked the Speaker for his support and expressed confidence that his participation would add significant value to the success of the summit.
The ISDMA delegation comprised members of the executive council, alongside the Chairman, Secretary and members of the Central Planning Committee.